The City of Lloydminster will once again be receiving some painted concrete barriers as Mural Fest enters its second year in the Border City.
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The event first kicked off at last year’s Lloyd Ex Fair, with artists from around the city gathering to paint concrete barriers.
At the April 7 regular council meeting, administration presented the request for $11,500 to be allocated from the public art capital reserve for the purchase of six barriers.
“While the public art committee’s contribution of $11,500 will allow administration to acquire up to six painted parking barriers, the project will consist of nearly 20 parking barriers being painted by various artists,” said Natalie Clysdale, manager, Lloydminster Museum and Archives.
The 20 painted parking barriers will be sponsored by businesses and organizations in the Border City.
Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson said it’s an important event for the community.
“I think it’s an amazing way for youth to be involved in the community,” she said. “I’ve noticed the barriers they did and placed around the city. It seems like something small, but it actually is a very expressive way of showing what is important to our community.”
Last year, council approved $7,500 to support Mural Fest and the purchase of six barriers. Clysdale explained the increase in funding request is to compensate the artists.
“With this being the second year they’ve offered it, the Mural Festival committee has a better idea about the cost of operations, plus there’s a drive to compensate the artists a little better this year,” she said.
Once finished, the concrete barriers will be permanently located at Driven Energy Legion Ball Park.
“There was some discussion about other locations, but this one was decided on,” said Clysdale.
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